For many a local filmmaker, it’s a rub that the 48 Hour Film Project comes but once a year (though we suppose some do Baltimore and Richmond as well). 48HFP realized that and launched the National Film Challenge as an antidote to Fall Film Loss Seasonal Disorder (FFLSD). Now run by some energetic folks out at KDHX Community Media, this competition is open to everyone, but don’t just take it from us, read the official announcement:

Registration for the National Film Challenge is now open.  If you missed your city’s 48 Hour Film Project this year or just want to recreate the thrill of your weekend, now’s your time to go nuts! The premise is simple: you’ll spend 3 days writing, shooting and editing a short fiction film and we’ll give you a genre, prop, line of dialogue and character to incorporate into your film. At the end of the weekend you’ll walk away with not only a completed film but also a sense of accomplishment and memories to last a lifetime. Your film will go on to be screened by a national panel of judges who will determine a winner. The top 15 Finalist films will be available for viewing on the Film Challenge website. Additionally, the top films will receive cash prizes and go on to screen at the 48 Hour Film Project’s Filmapalooza at the Taos Shortz Film Festival.

Grab your camera and some coffee and get ready; the National Film Challenge is on!

Key Dates

Early Bird Registration: NOW OPEN
Regular Registration Begins: September 23
National Film Challenge Dates: October 21-24, 2011
Full information is available at http://filmchallenge.org/News/national-film-challenge-is-on.html